Have youth respond in writing to the prompt “I wish my __________________ (fill in person or role) knew…….” in order to learn more about their personal lives. This activity allows for deeper connection with youth and often brings up social-emotional challenges the person is facing. Many people find that doing this in writing is easier …
Used to confront a behavior without placing blame on another. . Also used to recognize one’s emotions. Another use is to state a point of view without requiring the other person to agree with the point of view. To use an “I” Statement, start a sentence with “I” and describe how you feel, without including …
When a young person is in the throes of anger, panic, or emotional outburst, often their minds and bodies are experiencing a stress response whereby they literally feel unsafe. Instead of yelling at them or isolating them, let them know that they are safe. Try saying, “I am here for you. I love you/I care …
An interactive game to learn names and qualities about people in a group, that teaches skills of investigation, appreciating diversity, identifying similarities and differences. Photocopy a “human bingo” sheet (many samples are online) for each participant. Each box will have a characteristic or something a person can do or that they possess. Examples include: “can …
When appropriate, hugs help us feel better. When a child is having a tantrum, try asking for a hug or saying, “When you are ready, I’d be happy to give you hug.” Rarely does anything more need to be said and everyone can move on.
After analyzing the information surrounding a problem or challenge, what is your reaction? Were the systems fair? Why or why not? Identify one or two youth to do video interviews with fellow children/students to learn their reactions. Compile them into one video piece. For young children, this can be facilitated by parents, caregivers or teachers …
A reflection activity that can be done as part of a family meeting, intervention, restorative justice session, or other time in which a “big picture” outlook is desired. Typically done in a small group of people that have love and concern for another group member. For example, a child undergoing a significant change such as …
Learn about Ho‘oponopono, the Hawaiian system for ‘setting it right,’ and restoring individual and community harmony and balance. It promotes acts of healing interpersonal conflicts and is relationship-centered and not agreement-centered. It often involves forgiveness. During Ho‘omalu, practitioners sit in solitude and gather strength prior to speaking one’s true feelings. With all family members working …
Project a slide or make a poster listing or showing in pictures a wide range of emotions and feelings (brave, uncomfortable, confident, jealous, peaceful, disappointed, safe, strong, sorry, etc….). Ask youth to pick two different emotions that describe them today – one emotion they show on the surface, and another emotion they keep on the …
Consider the benefits of establishing and maintaining a garden….. time with nature, cultivation of living plants, growing of edible foods, time to reflect, and many others. A garden, large or small, can be created in the earth, in containers, in a greenhouse, on a window ledge, or in your own inventive space. The idea is …